THE BIG ISLAND OF HAWAII

Mauna Kea Summit Tour

Overview & Activity Comparison

Overview

Rising 13,796 feet above sea level, the dormant Mauna Kea volcano is the highest of the five volcanoes on the island (and in Hawaii overall) and the tallest mountain in the world if measured in its entirety from the ocean floor. It provides a special vantage point to watch a stunning sunrise or sunset above the clouds, and its clear thin air, little precipitation, and lack of light pollution create a prime stargazing location that is home to some of the best telescopes in the world. Its otherworldly landscape has led NASA astronauts to train here. On clear days, you can see nearby Maui and expansive views of the vast Big Island.

Guidebook Reviews

Big Island Revealed Guidebook:

Sunsets when clouds cooperate are an unrivaled splendor of unequaled expansiveness

Activity Comparison

The below table outlines the key differences between our Mauna Kea Summit tours. Both tours are operated by a highly regarded company running small group tours for over 25 years on the Big Island. The minimum age is 16, although a private tour for larger groups can go to 9,000 feet for stargazing without the age minimum. Larger groups may also be interested in a day tour, available only for private groups. Please visit the individual pages for all the details and to book.